Modella AI Announces Agreement to Accelerate AI-Driven Oncology Clinical Development
'Foundation models are transforming precision medicine. They are the backbone of AI-powered biomedical discovery and mark the first step toward fully autonomous AI agents,' said Jill Stefanelli, CEO of Modella AI. 'Our state-of-the-art multimodal foundation models provide powerful features from different data types for downstream tasks. When integrated with AstraZeneca's research engine, they will have the potential to accelerate data driven development and enable the development of new AI agents that can automate complex R&D workflows.'
AstraZeneca will leverage Modella AI's platform to enhance its oncology R&D capabilities, with the goal of enhancing clinical development, biomarker discovery, and improving patient outcomes. Both companies will collaborate closely to integrate the models into AstraZeneca's research pipeline, enabling data-driven discovery at increased scale and speed.
'At AstraZeneca, AI is integrated across every aspect of clinical development,' said Jorge Reis-Filho, Chief AI and Data Scientist, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca. 'Through the use of foundation models, combined with our unique datasets and AI expertise, we are confident in our strategy to accelerate development and increase the probabilities of success in our oncology clinical trials.'
About Modella AI
Modella AI (www.modella.ai) is a Boston-based biomedical AI company dedicated to advancing healthcare through the development of cutting-edge generative and agentic AI technologies. By combining expertise in artificial intelligence and pathology, Modella AI aims to deliver innovative solutions that empower clinicians, improve patient outcomes, and transform medical workflows.
Disclaimer: This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Modella AI management. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNBC
38 minutes ago
- CNBC
Microsoft layoffs hit 830 workers in home state of Washington
Among the thousands of Microsoft employees who lost their jobs in the cutbacks announced this week were 830 staffers in the company's home state of Washington. Nearly a dozen game design workers in the state were part of the layoffs, along with three audio designers, two mechanical engineers, one optical engineer and one lab technician, according to a document Microsoft submitted to Washington employment officials. There were also five individual contributors and one manager at the Microsoft Research division in the cuts, as well as 10 lawyers and six hardware engineers, the document shows. Microsoft announced plans on Wednesday to eliminate 9,000 jobs, as part of an effort to eliminate redundancy and to encourage employees to focus on more meaningful work by adopting new technologies, a person familiar with the matter told CNBC. The person asked not to be named while discussing private matters. Scores of Microsoft salespeople and video game developers have since come forward on social media to announce their departure. In April, Microsoft said revenue from Xbox content and services grew 8%, trailing overall growth of 13%. In sales, the company parted ways with 16 customer success account management staff members based in Washington, 28 in sales strategy enablement and another five in sales compensation. One Washington-based government affairs worker was also laid off. Microsoft eliminated 17 jobs in cloud solution architecture in the state, according to the document. The company's fastest revenue growth comes from Azure and other cloud services that customers buy based on usage. CEO Satya Nadella has not publicly commented on the layoffs, and Microsoft didn't immediately provide a comment about the cuts in Washington. On a conference call with analysts in April, Microsoft CFO Amy Hood said the company had a "focus on cost efficiencies" during the March quarter.
Business Wire
an hour ago
- Business Wire
Global Tourism Surging Ahead of Economic Growth, With Visits to Hit 30 Billion by 2034
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The World Economic Forum has today published a new report forecasting that the travel and tourism industry is projected to serve 30 billion tourist trips by 2034. Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point: Principles for Transformative Growth, produced in collaboration with Kearney and the Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia, reveals a projected $16 trillion contribution to global GDP by the same year—representing more than 11% of the total world economy, according to World Travel & Tourism Council estimates. The report also found that the sector is expanding 1.5 times faster than the global economy, generating significant commercial opportunities as long as the mounting challenges of climate change, labour shortages and infrastructure gaps are addressed. Inbound and outbound trips increasing fast Asia is on track to become the world's fastest-growing tourism economy, with the direct travel and tourism GDP contribution expected to exceed 7% across the region by 2034. Notably, India and China alone will represent more than 25% of all outbound international travel by 2030. Countries such as Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia are also poised for significant growth, driven by substantial investment in their tourism sectors. This momentum is leading to a rise in international arrivals, increased tourism-related business activity and greater global visibility. Sports and technology Equally, high-growth segments like sports tourism, projected to hit $1.7 trillion by 2032, and ecotourism which is growing at 14% CAGR, are redefining travel priorities. The global travel technology market, worth $10.5 billion in 2024, is set to nearly double by 2033, as 91% of industry tech leaders anticipate aggressive investment increases. To support this boom, the industry will need to expand significantly—requiring an estimated 7 million new hotel rooms, 15 million additional flights annually and investment in infrastructure capable of supporting 30 billion trips globally. Risks and opportunities However, the report also flags significant risks. Travel and tourism currently accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that without intervention could rise to 15% by 2034. Waste generated by tourists is expected to reach 205 million tons annually, equivalent to 7% of the world's solid waste. At the same time, workforce shortages are escalating. The UK alone saw 53% turnover in 2022–2023, while the US hospitality industry continues to lag in hiring despite 16%-above-inflation wage increases. Without decisive, coordinated action, the sector could face up to $6 trillion in lost revenue by 2030 from future disruptions, missing its potential to become a true driver of resilience, inclusion and regeneration. Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, said: 'As global travel accelerates, we are standing at a pivotal crossroads. The sector's potential to drive inclusive prosperity, cultural understanding and environmental regeneration is immense—but realizing this opportunity will require more than incremental change. 'It calls for a bold reimagining of the systems that underpin travel and tourism, anchored in multistakeholder collaboration. From aligning on sustainable fuel standards to empowering local communities in tourism planning, the time has come to redesign the rules to create a sector that works better for people and the planet. This report offers a blueprint to guide that transformation and unlock tourism's full promise in a rapidly evolving world.' His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, said: "This report cements a global truth: tourism is not just a siloed, standalone industry—it is an engine for economic growth, cultural understanding, and international cooperation that influences all aspects of the world's experience-driven economy. As the sector expands, the global community must lead with purpose—reimagining tourism to be more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. 'In Saudi Arabia, we're investing in regenerative destinations, future-ready infrastructure, and talent development—not only to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030, but to help shape and support the future of global tourism. The story being written about tourism of the future is one of transformation, and we invite the world to be part of it.' Bob Willen, Managing Partner and Chairman at Kearney, added: 'Tourism is a powerful driver of jobs, culture and economic growth around the world. As the industry grows to meet the needs of billions more travellers, it also needs to evolve. That means using technology responsibly, supporting workers and small businesses, protecting the planet, and making sure local communities truly benefit. 'The principles in our report lay out a practical path forward from investing in greener infrastructure and building a more inclusive workforce, to preserving cultural heritage and planning for future crises. It's about creating a travel and tourism sector that's not just bigger, but works in everyone's interests.' Notes to editors Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point: Principles for Transformative Growth is published by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with Kearney and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The report draws on global data, expert interviews and scenario modelling to set out a roadmap for a sustainable and inclusive tourism future. About Kearney Since 1926, Kearney has been a leading management consulting firm and trusted partner to three-quarters of the Fortune Global 500 and governments around the world. With a presence across more than 40 countries, our people make us who we are. We work impact first, tackling your toughest challenges with original thinking and a commitment to making change happen together. By your side, we deliver—value, results, impact. About the World Economic Forum The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. ( About the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia The Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, established in the year 2000, is at the forefront of transforming the Kingdom into the most attractive global destination for tourists and investors. Dedicated to realizing Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030, the Ministry focuses on long-term growth through innovative policies, strategic investments, and the development of national human capital. With a mission centered on enabling accelerated and sustainable growth, it employs data-driven strategies and integrated delivery mechanisms, all while staying true to the country's rich Arabian authenticity. The Ministry is deeply committed to sustainability, aiming to lead by example in minimizing environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices that ensure the preservation of natural resources for future generations. By aspiring to captivate hearts and minds of global audience, the Ministry opens Saudi Arabia's doors to the world, creating a tourism sector where transformative stories are experienced daily. Having welcomed 100 million visitors in 2023, Saudi Arabia is on a steadfast journey toward its goal of 150 million visitors by 2030. As the guiding force behind Saudi Arabia's tourism sector transformation, the Ministry champions cutting-edge regulations, fosters successful collaborations and cultivates talent. This commitment positions the Kingdom to welcome the world, fueling the realization of Vision 2030 and showcasing a sustainable and vibrant future.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Why AstraZeneca Stock Got Thumped on Thursday
It might be gearing up to pay billions of dollars to participate in a drug program currently in development. Its would-be partner is an American biotech that has earned a lot of attention lately. 10 stocks we like better than AstraZeneca Plc › AstraZeneca (NASDAQ: AZN) might soon be on the hook for an eventual 11-figure payout, and investors weren't all that comfortable with this. A Bloomberg article published Thursday morning said that the company is pursuing what might end up being an expensive partnership with a biotech. A cautious market traded AstraZeneca stock down by more than 2% following the report, on a day when the S&P 500 index landed firmly in positive territory with a 0.8% gain. The article that dinged AstraZeneca was a Bloomberg piece asserting that the company is in discussions with Summit Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SMMT) on a formal partnership. The article, which cited unidentified "people familiar with the matter" as its sources, stated the two companies might collaborate on ivonescimab. This is a cancer drug licensed by Summit (from its developer, Akeso) for numerous jurisdictions outside of Akeso's native China, including North America and Europe. According to Bloomberg, AstraZeneca and Summit are currently working out the details of such an arrangement. The article's sources added that an upfront payment of several billion dollars could be involved in any deal; it did not get more specific. One figure mentioned was $15 billion, which is apparently a total in upfront monies and milestone payments Summit might eventually earn. AstraZeneca is a global healthcare incumbent that's large, sprawling, and well financed -- at the end of its latest reported quarter, the U.K.-headquartered company had more than 4 billion British pounds ($5.5 billion) in cash alone. Still, $15 billion is a huge amount, even when spread over the lifetime of an in-development drug's lifecycle. I wouldn't be overly concerned about this if I were an AstraZeneca shareholder. In fact, I'd be encouraged. There aren't a great many oncology development programs that have shown as much potential as ivonescimab, and if it ends up fulfilling its promise it could easily be a blockbuster drug. I think it might be smarter to be a buyer than a seller of AstraZeneca at the moment. Before you buy stock in AstraZeneca Plc, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and AstraZeneca Plc wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $692,914!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $963,866!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 1,049% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 179% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join . See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of June 30, 2025 Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Summit Therapeutics. The Motley Fool recommends AstraZeneca Plc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Why AstraZeneca Stock Got Thumped on Thursday was originally published by The Motley Fool Sign in to access your portfolio
